The Carnegie Arts Center in Downtown Turlock is bursting with color, texture, and imagination as it hosts the 2025 Carnegie Art Showcase—a juried exhibition that has become a hallmark of artistic excellence in Central California. With a record-breaking 292 entries submitted, jurors selected 90 standout works to be displayed in the Ferrari Gallery through August 30, offering visitors a vibrant cross-section of contemporary art.
The exhibition features 54 artists from 24 communities across the region, representing a stunning array of media including painting, watercolor, drawing, printmaking, ceramics, woodwork, photography, fiber arts, collage, mixed media, and installation. From seasoned professionals to emerging voices, the Showcase reflects the dynamic and evolving landscape of visual arts in the Central Valley and beyond.
“We are reaching more artists every year and seeing an increasing variety in the works we get to feature,” said Lisa McDermott, Director of the Carnegie Arts Center. “This is what makes the show unique and exciting every year.”
This year’s jurors—Martin Azevedo (printmaker and CSU Stanislaus Art Department Chair), Franka Gabler (award-winning photographer), and Daniel Van Gerpen (painter and graphic designer)—awarded $2,350 in prize money to artists whose works stood out for their originality and execution.
Best of Show:
Larry Whatley of Turlock for his oil painting Aura #2
Awards of Excellence:
Mark Knize of Tracy for Doodle, crafted from California walnut wood
Sue Siefkin of Modesto for Bryce, a fabric collage
Awards of Merit:
John Kifer of North Fork for Eyes that Cannot See, acrylic
Vivian Patton of Groveland for Mark & Molly, soft pastel
Ruben Sanchez of Merced for Las Hermanas, screenprint
Nicole Slater of Modesto for Tree Formed Landscape, acrylic
Honorable Mentions:
Stephen Abbas (Turlock), William Harris (Modesto), Andria Hernandez (Turlock), Geneva Mello (Lodi), Patrick Rhames (Fresno)
Art lovers can deepen their experience through Gallery Talks featuring several award-winning artists. These intimate discussions will take place on August 28 at 6 p.m., offering insights into the creative process and the stories behind the works.
The Showcase includes works by a wide range of creatives from cities such as Modesto, Merced, Fresno, Groveland, and San Francisco. ●
